First Responders

Date of Publication:

10/4/2004

Definition:

The primary healthcare providers whose responsibility is the provision of immediate clinical care and stabilization in preparation for evacuation to the next level of care.  In addition to treating injuries, they treat Service members for common acute minor illnesses.  These elements of medical management prepare patients for return to duty or for transportation to a higher level of care and may be conducted by self-aid, buddy care, combat lifesavers, medics/corpsmen/medical technicians, or paramedics.  They also support disease and injury prevention activities.